Harrisburg –To re-emphasize the critical jobs done by first responders, as well as their unrelenting commitment to others, Senator Bob Mensch (R-24) re-introduced a resolution, SR 259, designating the week of January 1, 2018 through January 7, 2018, as First Responder Appreciation Week in Pennsylvania.

“Today’s first responders are facing unprecedented challenges,” said Mensch. “The need in our communities for these individuals continues to increase within the Commonwealth. At the same time, it is becoming more difficult to recruit volunteers due to time commitments, increased training requirements and especially lack of funding.”

First responders include fire, police and emergency medical personnel. They are likely to be the first people to arrive at and assist at the scene of an emergency, such as a vehicle crash, structure fire, natural disaster or terrorist attack.

“These individuals make a tremendous difference in our communities every day through their selfless acts of service and the sacrifices,” said Mensch. “We owe a huge debt of gratitude and our eternal thanks to each and every one of them, as very especially their families.”